This policy brief is concerned with CH institutions in a time of dynamic cultural, social and technological change. Specifically, it considers the multi-faceted impact of DT and the recalibration of the relationship between institutional CH practices and the individual. It advocates that innovation through research and new technologies are essential for bringing the CH of Europe closer to people, the importance of the CH sector to European growth and the recognition of DT as a driver of change in the CH institution.

Education and learning have been a high priority task for museums. Whether informal and unintentional or structured in educational programmes for different kinds of audiences, museum learning focuses on the learner. Rather than knowledge transmission, it builds upon knowledge construction and an active engagement in personal, social and physical contexts. More than knowledge acquisition, learning in museums is engaging and gives a sense of wellbeing.

Document containing a set of principles for encouraging and supporting citizens’ engagement in cultural heritage and humanities research in the digital age. The Charter is open to be adopted by all interested parties, namely private organisations, public institutions, artists, professionals, researchers and interested citizens.

On 24 April European ministers responsible for cultural heritage have adopted guidelines for a European heritage strategy at their 6th conference entitled “Cultural heritage in the 21st century for living better together. Towards a common strategy for Europe.” The conference was organised in Namur in the framework of the Belgian Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe.

The European Parliament’s Committee on Culture and Education held a public hearing on 2 December 2014 in Brussels. The hearing focused on the current state of play, the challenges faced and the steps to be taken in order to tap into the potential of cultural heritage for social progress and sustainable economic development.

At its meeting in Brussels on 25 November 2014, the Council of the European Union, under the leadership of the Italian Presidency, adopted Conclusions on participatory governance of cultural heritage, inviting Member States to promote a more active involvement of civil society and of the private sector in the governance of cultural heritage, at local, regional, national and European levels.